Arsenal to open talks with Stoke City over £8million Asmir Begovic transfer

Arsenal are ready to open talks with Stoke City over a deal to bring goalkeeper Asmir Begovic to the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are in desperate need of another glovesman for next season, with Lukasz Fabianski and loanee Emiliano Viviano both set to leave, meaning Wojciech Szczesny would be the club’s only senior stopper.

Arsene Wenger has made it clear that he wants a genuine rival for Szczesny, and Stoke star Begovic is a top target.

Arsene Wenger wants a new goalkeeper (Picture: Reuters)

Arsenal officials are planning to speak to Stoke in the coming days to discuss a fee for the Bosnian, with the north London club hopeful of striking a deal for about £8million.

The Potters are in no rush to sell, but do have the benefit of having a long-term replacement in the form of Jack Butland already in their ranks.

Begovic has long been recognised as one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the Premier League, having impressed since his switch from Portsmouth.